Cleanup targets for oiled shorelines are typically established in consideration of shoreline use, sensitivities, and natural attenuation processes. Trace oiling on many sand beaches, where public use is common, is usually not desirable or acceptable; however, areas subject to deposition of naturally occurring tar balls or in close proximity to shipping and oil transport corridors may have normal traces of oil.

Fingerprinting analyses of hydrocarbons in trace oiling can help to distinguish a spilled product from natural background oil in many but not all cases. Removal of all traces of oil, and in particular oil that does not match a specific spill event, can be never-ending.

A key consideration for a spill management team (decision-makers and environmental unit) is to gain an understanding of background oiling, sources, variability, and management. Cleanup to levels below background are likely to be more detrimental.

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2024
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